What is the purpose of disability benefits under the Minnesota Workers' Compensation system?

The purpose of disability benefits under the Minnesota Workers' Compensation system is to compensate workers for loss of income due to a work-related injury. This function is essential in providing financial support to individuals who are unable to perform their job duties because of an injury sustained while working. The primary aim is to help maintain the injured worker's financial stability during their recovery period, ensuring that they can still meet their living expenses even when they are unable to earn their regular income.

The system is designed to replace a portion of the wages lost as a result of the injury, allowing workers to focus on their rehabilitation and recovery. This focus on compensating lost income distinguishes the purpose of disability benefits from other types of support, such as medical assistance or programs aimed at rewarding service or encouraging return to work.